So I've run over a 1,000 rounds through my Tactical Supergrade Compact and I've now experienced a couple of FTFs. I'm figuring that its probably time to change out the recoil spring and I've order/received several replacement springs from Wilson.

Here's the question. On the Compact model you pin back the spring unlike the models that you rotate the bushing and carefully release the spring with your thumb over it. Once I've taken the slide off and removed the captured spring/guide rod assembly what is the best way to pull the pin and release the spring without shooting it across the room. And, since these spring are 20# units how much trouble am I going to have compressing this spring back on to the guide rod so that I can capture it again with the pin.

My 5" Wilson and Kimber are no problem. I just haven't had to change out the 4" guy yet. Any tips or suggestions that don't involve putting the dog's eye out with the spring flying across the room. She wouldn't like that very much.

Tom,
To remove spring after spring/guide rod assembly is out of slide, hold the pinned spring assembly upside down over a padded surface and extract pin with pliers. The spring guide will hit the padded surface hard.

To reassemble, I find an extra hand is helpful and let my wife insert the pin while I compress the spring with guide cap. BE VERY CAREFUL during reassembly. Letting the guide cap slip will shoot it upwards/outward with substantial force!

BE VERY CAREFUL during reassembly. Letting the guide cap slip will shoot it upwards/outward with substantial force!

Yeah, that was part of what I was worried about. I didn't really have a feel for just how hard it would be to compress by hand without letting it slip. I guess I'll just give it a shot and find out. Hopefully I won't have to chase parts around the room.

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